Wines Coteaux-de-Saumur Château Hureau - 2005

Château Hureau’s 2005 Coteaux-de-Saumur Blanc is a beautifully expressive sweet white wine from the heart of the Loire Valley, specifically the Anjou-Saumur region. Although the grape variety is not detailed, sweet whites from this appellation are most commonly made with Chenin Blanc, which lends remarkable aromatic complexity and richness. The 2005 vintage, now with a generous period of bottle-age, is likely to exhibit mature notes alongside lingering varietal freshness. Expect a golden hue in the glass and an alluring bouquet, perhaps featuring honeyed apricot, dried orchard fruit, quince, and sometimes delicate floral or acacia elements. The palate often balances luscious sweetness with the vibrant acidity characteristic of Loire Valley moelleux wines, leading to a long, harmonious finish.

The Coteaux de Saumur appellation is notable for its gentle slopes and chalky tuffeau limestone soils, which help retain moisture while promoting excellent drainage. This unique terroir, combined with the temperate climate of the Loire—marked by moderate summers and cool nights—fosters expressive, age-worthy white wines. Loire sweet wines have a rich heritage, with local winemakers often harvesting late to achieve desired sugar levels, sometimes allowing for noble rot in exceptional years to deepen concentration and complexity.

For food pairings, moelleux wines such as this complement both savoury and sweet dishes. Serve alongside blue cheese, foie gras, or poultry in creamy sauces to highlight its luscious texture and freshness. Regional fare such as rillettes d’oie or Roquefort salad will echo both the wine’s richness and acidity. When it comes to desserts, fruit tarts, poached pears, or tarte Tatin celebrate its nuanced sweetness without overwhelming the palate.

Allow this wine to show its best by serving lightly chilled, around 10-12°C. Pour into a generous white wine glass to appreciate its evolving bouquet, and savour slowly to fully enjoy the interplay between its matured complexity and lively structure.